Back in 2013, I started taking corporate headshot clients. I thought that it was a fairly straightforward process - ask the client to stand on a spot and smile for the camera. Fast forward to the present time, I realised how little I knew back then.
Here are two shots of Alec, one taken in 2013 and the other taken after I have trained under the industry leader in headshot photography, Peter Hurley. This was taken with essentially the same equipment and lighting gear. The main difference is my ability to direct my clients in bringing out their confidence in front of the camera. The 'Before' image is not that bad and can pass off as a corporate ID photo. I've browsed quite a few websites here in NZ and most corporate headshot photos look this way.
The 'After' image looks smarter, more confident and has the oomph! factor. I think a lot of people get hung up on the latest gear to make their photography better. While that is also important, I believe professional photographers are paid because they have the ability to bring out the best in their client. This is particulary true when it comes to headshot photography as it is very unforgiving given the ratio of the head in the total image size. Every micro-expression is exposed. When directed properly, those micro-expressions spell the difference between a corporate ID and a corporate headshot.
Note: Identity Headshots was formerly called Fotojorno.
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